Kill Buyers Not Welcome | Video

Retha Colclasure | 3/1/2013

Twenty-two mules seized by Morton County authorities after they were found near death on a Morton County ranch will be put up for auction tomorrow. The owner of the rescue where the auction is being held has a strong message: don`t come if you`re planning to send the mules to slaughter.

Alison Smith says these mules, many of which are well trained, deserve a loving home. Smith took in dozens of the animals that were seized from Bill Kiefer after 96 horses were found dead on his property in late January.

"They`ve been through a lot. They`re survivors and to have them re-homed in a loving home where they can live out the rest of their days is the ultimate. It`s the whole mission behind the rescue so that would be what we wish for and I think is very achievable," Smith said.

Many of the horses were adopted out already, but the county decided to put the mules up for auction to help recoup some of their costs.

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